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Northumbria University is based in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, which is regularly voted the best place in the UK for students who are attracted by our excellent academic reputation, our top 10 graduate employment record and our outstanding campus and sports facilities.

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If you are passionately creative, visually aware and dedicated to producing excellent Graphic Design, with or without Adobe and Macintosh, you should consider joining our award-winning BA(Hons) course. With a clear focus on Graphic Design we will provide you with the opportunity to generalise, or specialise, in all aspects of our subject to a level that suits your needs. You will be fully prepared for a career in one of the many creative industries that will value you and your skillset upon graduation.

You’ll be taught by an established teaching team with many years’ experience in all aspects of Graphic Design and education. You’ll have access to robust industry and alumni links, guest lectures, the opportunity to work on live briefs from leading consultancies, the brightest and best student competitions, plus national and international field trips. We will enable you to graduate as a confident Graphic Designer with a creative portfolio that showcases your creativity and skills, empowering you to make a real impact on your chosen career.

Northumbria University is ranked 10th in Design & Crafts in the UK (Guardian University League Tables 2020).

95% of students said that the course has provided them with opportunities to explore ideas or concepts in depth (National Student Survey, 2018).

If you are passionately creative, visually aware and dedicated to producing excellent Graphic Design, with or without Adobe and Macintosh, you should consider joining our award-winning BA(Hons) course. With a clear focus on Graphic Design we will provide you with the opportunity to generalise, or specialise, in all aspects of our subject to a level that suits your needs. You will be fully prepared for a career in one of the many creative industries that will value you and your skillset upon graduation.

You’ll be taught by an established teaching team with many years’ experience in all aspects of Graphic Design and education. You’ll have access to robust industry and alumni links, guest lectures, the opportunity to work on live briefs from leading consultancies, the brightest and best student competitions, plus national and international field trips. We will enable you to graduate as a confident Graphic Designer with a creative portfolio that showcases your creativity and skills, empowering you to make a real impact on your chosen career.

Northumbria University is ranked 10th in Design & Crafts in the UK (Guardian University League Tables 2020).

95% of students said that the course has provided them with opportunities to explore ideas or concepts in depth (National Student Survey, 2018).

Book an Open Day
/ Experience Graphic Design BA (Hons)

Collaborative Projects with Industry

We seek collaborative opportunities for students on all three years of our degree programme, and have an enviable list of recent collaborations with multi-award winning agencies both nationally and locally.

You will learn through doing. This hands-on course is designed so that the way you work mirrors the practice of a graphic design studio, instilling in you the discipline of a professional designer from day one. By exploring and experimenting with theory, concept, ideas, and visual research you will become a confident and innovative practitioner.

You will work on ‘live briefs’ based on real-life scenarios, encouraged to use your creative and your problem solving skills to meet your ‘clients’ expectations. Studio-culture practices and workshop activities develop research methodologies and knowledge of industry-standard practice. You will have access to up-to-date equipment and support from dedicated technicians.

You will have the opportunity to work on your own portfolio during the course, graduating with a complete showcase of your abilities.

Book an Open Day
/ Experience Graphic Design BA (Hons)

Our innovative team have extensive experience across the visual communications field. From practicing graphic designers working in award-winning design consultancies, to experience in publishing, illustration and animation, they have the relevant experience and industry know-how to equip you with the creative and practical skills needed to make an impact in your chosen profession.

The Graphic Design team have previously worked in other high profile higher education institutions and also on design projects for a range of household names such as Laura Ashley, The Science Museum in London, The National Railway Museum, Jasper Conran, Ideal Standard and Virgin Megastores.

Book an Open Day
/ Experience Graphic Design BA (Hons)

You will be immersed in an environment focused on producing good design. Students come from around the world giving this course a diverse feel. Visiting professional graphic designers and illustrators often visit here to deliver guest lectures and workshops, giving examples of best practice and relating what you are studying to the real world. With visits to working design studios and a graphic design conference you will have the perfect opportunity to network with those in industry.

You will showcase your work in a final degree show based at Northumbria and have the chance to participate in the ‘D&AD Newblood’ graduate exhibition in London. Leading industry figures are invited to both shows giving you the chance to make vital contacts and raise your profile.

Book an Open Day
/ Experience Graphic Design BA (Hons)

Research, and the development of concepts from research, is the fundamental core of the course.

You will benefit from research-orientated and research-based teaching, gaining an understanding of the knowledge production process, and relevant methods of enquiry used within graphic design. Staff use their own research to influence the curriculum and to ensure you are learning at the cutting-edge of the subject. Staff research interests include design principles, traditional craft and digital typographic practices, online resourcing, learning and teaching.

You will embed a research based approach into every project, demonstrating your ability for independent critical reflection, and self-directed enquiry. The degree culminates in a final show which showcases your levels of knowledge, understanding and experience.

Book an Open Day
/ Experience Graphic Design BA (Hons)

This course is specifically designed to make you as employable as possible. We have strong links with industry not only in the UK but throughout Europe and internationally. Not only is there the opportunity for you to study abroad or undertake a summer placement, you also have the chance to go on field trips to London, Amsterdam and Barcelona to experience the culture of some of Europe’s top design studios. Working on live project briefs from global brands and organisations such as Abercrombie & Fitch and Changing Lives gives you excellent practical experience and a vital head start with your portfolio.

This award-winning course has gained success in many Graphic Design awards, with 82 ‘Design and Art Director’s Awards’ (D&AD) in 22 years, including 36 of the highest award possible, a ‘yellow pencil’.

Student Life

A great social scene can be found at the heart of our campuses, featuring award-winning bars and a huge range of clubs and societies to join you'll be sure to meet people who share your enthusiasms.

Book an Open Day
/ Experience Graphic Design BA (Hons)

The ability to specialise in Branding, Typography and Editorial Design or Illustration enables you to graduate from the course a confident designer with a strong focus. You will have substantial experience of working to brief, a strong portfolio, and be fully prepared for a career in a design studio, or illustration. You will have the skills to enter a wide variety of careers in the field including branding, publishing, digital media, in-house or freelance design, illustration, image-making, typography and editorial design.

We have an enviable reputation for producing graduates who go on to become leaders in their field in the UK and beyond. Many of our alumni are now working with high profile design consultancies including Apple, Browns, Wolff Olins, Landor, The Chase, Elmwood, Design Bridge, Fraser Muggeridge and Hallmark.

Course in brief

Who would this Course suit?

If you are looking for a degree that not only gives you key design skills but is focused on making you as employable as possible, then this could be the one for you. You will get hand-on practical experience, working in a graphic design studio environment, and culminating in a graduate exhibition show in Newcastle and London.

Entry Requirements 2019/20

Standard Entry

A portfolio of creative design work available for consideration at interview.

This portfolio containing examples of your work is to help us understand your creative experience and potential ability to undertake a degree in Design. It should evidence your interests in your creative specialism to date. It may include past and current school or college work, personal projects, work in progress and other work that you feel demonstrates your creative potential.

GCSE Requirements:

A good GCSE profile is expected including Maths and English Language at minimum grade C or equivalent. If you have studied for a new GCSE for which you will be awarded a numerical grade then you will need to achieve a minimum grade 4.

UCAS Tariff Points:

128-136 UCAS Tariff points including one or more of the following:

GCE and VCE Advanced Level:

From at least 2 GCE/VCE A Levels

Edexcel/BTEC National Extended Diploma:

Distinction, Distinction, Merit

Diploma in Foundation Studies Art and Design/Art Design and Media The Diploma in Foundation Studies Art and Design/Art Design and Media is also accepted in combination with other qualifications

Scottish Highers:

BBBBC - BBBBB at Higher level, BCC - BBB at Advanced Higher

Irish Highers:

ABBBB - AABBB

IB Diploma: 128-136 UCAS Tariff points including minimum score of 4 in at least three subjects at Higher level

Access to HE Diploma: Award of full Access to HE Diploma including 27 credits at Distinction and 18 at Merit

Qualification combinations:

The University welcomes applications from students studying qualifications from different qualification types - for example A level and a BTEC qualification in combination, and if you are made an offer you will be asked to achieve UCAS Tariff points from all of the qualifications you are studying at level 3. Should the course you wish to study have a subject specific requirement then you must also meet this requirement, usually from GCE A level or eqivalent

If you have studied a non UK qualification, you can see how your qualifications compare to the standard entry criteria, by selecting the country that you received the qualification in, from our country pages. Visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:

International applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades you will need in our English Language section. Visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

Entry Requirements 2020/21

Standard Entry

120 UCAS Tariff pointsFrom a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas or the International Baccalaureate.

A Diploma in Foundation Studies Art and Design, or Art Design and Media is also accepted in combination with other qualifications

International Qualifications:We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications from the UK and worldwide which may not exactly match those shown above. If you have taken qualifications outside the UK you can find out how your qualifications compare by visiting our country page www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:International applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades you will need in our English Language section. Visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

Fees and Funding 2019/20 Entry

UK/EU Fee in Year 1:
£9,250

International Fee in Year 1:£15,000

ADDITIONAL COSTS

Throughout your course you may wish to purchase general materials including; Layout pads, Rotring Fine-liner pens, inks, brushes, Staedtler erasers, gouache/acrylic paint, Scalpel knives, drawing pads and charcoal etc. You will need to purchase a Black A2 Portfolio to present your work in, the cost of which is approx £30. There are a number of optional field trips that you may wish to participate in; the cost of these can range from £200-£500. You may also wish to purchase a laptop and external hard drive; these can range in price up to approximately £2,000. You may also wish to purchase Adobe Software Creative Suite, an approximate cost would be £195 in the first year and £300 per year thereafter.

Click here for International undergraduate funding and scholarships information.

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How to Apply

Applications via UCAS

Most full-time and sandwich first degrees, extended degrees, DipHE and HND courses require that application is made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) Clearing House.

If you are at school or college, staff there will advise you on how to apply. If you are not at school or college, you can apply using the UCAS secure, web-based online application system ucasapply.

Applicants apply via UCAS apply wherever there is access to the internet, and full instructions and an online help facility is available. Application details can be checked and printed at any time, text for personal statements and references can be copied and pasted into applications from a word processing package, and applications can normally be processed by the relevant Clearing House within one working day once submitted. More details on apply can be found on the UCAS website at www.ucas.com.

The UCAS institution code for Northumbria University is NORTH N77

If you wish to defer your entry, you should ensure you indicate this in section 3i of the application form. Full details of application deadlines and the application fee can be found on the UCAS website. Please note, however, we are unable to consider applications for deferred entry to our Teacher Training, Nursing, Midwifery and Operating Department Practice programmes.

Application Deadlines

Equal consideration is given to all applications received at UCAS by 6.00pm on 15 January. Details of all UCAS deadlines can be found on the UCAS website www.ucas.com.

UCAS will accept applications up to 30 June, but we can only consider these if there are still vacancies in relevant subjects. You are advised to check with the University before applying for popular courses which may already be full. Candidates applying for any courses after early September must follow the UCAS Late Registration Procedure, and we will provide the appropriate form.

Decision Making Process

When we receive your application it will be forwarded to the Admissions Tutor who will consider your application in accordance with the University’s Admissions Policy.

Most subject areas do not require applicants to attend an interview as part of the selection procedure. However, if the standard procedure is to interview candidates, this is specified in the degree programme entrance requirements. Some courses, such as Health, Social Work and Teacher Training, require specific checks or requirements to be put in place during the normal selection process. These are detailed on the individual course details pages.

Fairness and Transparency

The University is committed to a system of admissions that ensures fairness, transparency and equal opportunities within the legal framework of the UK and best practice. All reasonable effort will be made to ensure that no prospective or existing student is unreasonably treated less favourably on the grounds of age, race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, creed, disability, sexual orientation, gender, marital or parental/carer status, political belief or social or economic class, or any other type of discrimination.

What Happens Next

You will receive one of the following from UCAS or our Admissions Office:

Conditional offer which depends on you achieving certain grades from forthcoming examinations, completing relevant checks, or other requirements prior to entry. You may be asked to send us a copy of your certificates/qualifications once these have been received to enable us to confirm your offer. Not all examination results are sent to Universities via UCAS.

Unconditional offer if you have already satisfied entry requirements.

Reject your application.

Tuition Fee Assessment

Tuition fees are set at different levels for Home/EU and International Students. Before you begin your course the University must establish your tuition fee status. In many cases, the University will be able to make this assessment without requiring any additional information.

Guidance can be found on the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website www.ukcisa.org.uk to help you understand how Higher Education Institutions (HEI’s) make an assessment on your fee status.

Selection Process

Interviews

Applicants who may not have the standard entry qualifications are welcome to apply and may be interviewed. Some courses will interview as part of the selection process. This applies particularly to courses in art and design, teaching and health.

Health Screening

Applicants for Nursing, Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Primary (Early Years) and Social Work will be required to complete a health questionnaire, and you may be required to attend a doctor or nurse assessment at the University Health Centre.

Prior to beginning your programme, all applicants to Nursing, Midwifery, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy are advised to start a course of Hepatitis B vaccinations, available from your own GP. In addition, Midwifery applicants must provide evidence before they commence training that they are immune to Hepatitis B or have Hepatitis B non-carried status.

Applicants to these courses who have had contact with MRSA in the previous 6 months may be asked to provide evidence that they are not colonised by submitting negative swabs results prior to commencement of training. Alternatively, you may be screened on commencement of the programme.

All applicants will receive vaccination screening at the University Health Centre on commencement of their programme.

Disclosure of Criminal Background

To help the University reduce the risk of harm or injury to any member of its community caused by the criminal behaviour of other students, it must know about any relevant criminal convictions an applicant has.

Relevant criminal convictions are only those convictions for offences against the person, whether of a violent or sexual nature, and convictions for offences involving unlawfully supplying controlled drugs or substances where the conviction concerns commercial drug dealing or trafficking. Convictions that are spent (as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974) are not considered to be relevant and you should not reveal them - unless you are applying for one of the courses outlined within the following paragraph.

If you are applying for courses in teaching, health, social work and courses involving work with children or vulnerable adults, you must complete the section of your UCAS application form entitled ‘Criminal Convictions’. You must disclose anycriminal convictions, including spent sentences and cautions (including verbal cautions) and bindover orders. Further information on how to complete this section is available from the UCAS booklet ‘How to Apply’. For these courses, applicants are required to undergo police clearance for entry and will need to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) enhanced disclosure form.

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) helps employers make safer recruitment decisions and prevent unsuitable people from working with vulnerable groups, including children. It replaces the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA). Access to the DBS checking service is only available to registered employers who are entitled by law to ask an individual to reveal their full criminal history, including spent convictions - also known as asking 'an exempted question'. The University is such a 'registered employer' and will send you the appropriate documents to fill in if you are offered a place in the course.

If you are convicted of a relevant criminal offence after you have applied, you must tell UCAS and the University. Do not send details of the offence; simply tell UCAS and the University that you have a relevant criminal conviction. You may then be asked to supply more details.

Anti-fraud Checks

Please note that both UCAS and the University follow anti-fraud procedures to detect and prevent fraudulent applications. If it is found that an applicant supplies a fraudulent application then it will be withdrawn.

Plagiarism

Applicants suspected of providing, or found to have provided, false information will be referred to UCAS if their application was made via UCAS. The same is true for applicants who are suspected of omitting, or found to have omitted, information that they are required to disclose according to UCAS regulations. Applications identified by UCAS’s Similarity Detection software to contain plagiarised material will be considered on an individual basis by Admissions Staff, taking into account the nature, relevance and importance of the plagiarism. The University reserves the right to cancel an application or withdraw any offer made if it is found that an application contains false, plagiarised or misleading information.

Extra

The Extra process enables applicants who have not been offered a place, or have declined all offers received, can use EXTRA to apply for other courses that still have vacancies before Clearing starts. The Extra process normally operates from late February until the end of June and Applicants should use the Course Search facility at UCAS to find which courses have vacancies.

Clearing

If you have not succeeded in gaining a place at your firm or insurance university, UCAS will send you details about Clearing, the procedure which matches course vacancies with students who do not have a university place. Information about degree vacancies at Northumbria is published in the national press; and you can also find information on our dedicated Clearing web pages during this period. We operate a Helpline - 0191 40 60 901 - throughout the Clearing period for enquiries about course vacancies.

AdjustmentIf an applicant has both met and exceeded the conditions of their firmly accepted offer, they will have up to five calendar days from the time their place was confirmed (or A level results day, whichever is the later) to research places more appropriate to their performance. Applicants will have to nominate themselves for this system, and their eligibility will be confirmed by the institution they apply to adjust to.

Going to University from CareNorthumbria University is proud of its work in widening participation of young people and adults to university. We have recently been successful in being awarded the Frank Buttle Trust Quality Mark for Care Leavers in Higher Education. This mark was created to recognise institutions who go that extra mile to support students who have been in public care. To find out more, visit our Going to University from Care web page.

Disabled Students

Northumbria welcomes enquiries and applications from disabled students whether disability is due to mobility or sensory impairment, specific learning difficulties, mental health issues or a medical condition. Applications from disabled students are processed in the usual way, but applicants should declare their disability at the application stage so that the University can contact them to assess how to meet any support needs they may have. Disabled applicants may be invited to visit the University so that this can be done in person.

The University reserves the right at any stage to request applicants and enrolling students to provide additional information about any aspect of their application or enrolment. In the event of any student providing false or inaccurate information at any stage, and/or failing to provide additional information when requested to do so, the University further reserves the right to refuse to consider an application, to withdraw registration, rescind home fees status where applicable, and/or demand payment of any fees or monies due to the University.

Modules Overview 2019/20

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

Year one

AH4010 -

Cultural History for Graphic Designers (Core,20 Credits)

This level 4 module examines historical influences on graphic design within a global context and is designed to develop your knowledge of graphic design history, expanding your visual vocabulary as a designer, enabling you to take inspiration from the design of the past and locate your practice within the wider context of graphic design. You will first be introduced to historical questions concerning the development of graphic design. Topics include the historical development of visual messages, mark-making, alphabets and manuscripts; technological advances in print and type and the development of a new profession of Graphic Design. You will then explore graphic design through a survey of historical styles in relation to social and artistic context. The seminar sessions will allow you to research and discuss case studies relating to the lecture programme and develop skills enabling critical analysis of typography and images. You will develop skills of Visual Analysis, looking closely at images and putting your observations into words, and develop skills for writing academically about visual topics.

GD4007 -

BOOTCAMP 1: Think like a Graphic Designer (Core,40 Credits)

Through a series of short, fast-paced briefs you will be introduced to the intellectual fundamentals and creative processes involved within the practice of Graphic Design.

You will gain an understanding of the essential methods and processes that underpin the subject. The module gives you an introduction to the intellectual and creative philosophy of Graphic Design and fosters an understanding of the cognitive processes of visual problem solving and conceptual thinking required to be a Graphic Designer. This will be accomplished by your introduction to the various methods and approaches that can be employed as part of the design process. It will give you a greater understanding of the fundamentals of Graphic Design, including, amongst other things, the importance of typography, semiotics, layout, image curation, narrative and storytelling. These are all taught as a means of communication and as essential component in the subject of Graphic Design.

GD4008 -

BOOTCAMP 2: Work like a Graphic Designer (Core,40 Credits)

In this module you will build on the design thinking, skills and knowledge gained in ‘Bootcamp One’ by engaging with approaches to identifying design problems and by further developing your ability to respond to them creatively. You will develop the verbal and visual communication skills needed to present your work and collaborate effectively through presentations and group work. You will also continue developing the appropriate research skills for both practical design work and continuing academic study.

GD4009 -

THE TOOLKIT: Being Prepared (Core,20 Credits)

In this module, you will have the opportunity to learn about the expressive and creative potential offered by graphic design technical processes and techniques. These will be further enhanced by induction sessions exploring a variety of Graphic Design technical processes in appropriate workshop environments.

You will be encouraged to recognise how learning through challenging Graphic Design technical processes in this module can underpin novel and experimental approaches to problem-based work throughout the Graphic Design programme.

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

Year two

AH5010 -

Cultural Theory for Graphic Designers (Core,20 Credits)

In this module, you will be introduced to key themes and issues in Graphic Design. Through a dedicated lecture programme, you will examine the ways in which Graphic Design constantly changes, to both reflect and inform its wider cultural, social, economic and theoretical context. Supporting seminars explore the meanings, values and ethics of graphic design through the analysis of case studies of current practice in areas relevant to the students' individual programme pathways: Branding, Typography and Image-Making. In doing so it enhances your understanding of the theoretical questions which were introduced at level 4, and delivers key learning outcomes of: broadening and deepening students' appreciation of issues, concepts and theories in graphic design; enabling you to identify and evaluate relevant information within both delivered content and independent study; facilitating your development of independent study skills; and developing appropriate skills of academic presentation and the communication of ideas. Through developing analytical, critical, and theoretical skills, this module will enhance your studio practice and help prepare you for the extended individual research project at level 6.

GD5012 -

DIFFERENTIATION: What makes you, you! (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to the professional working environment and how to place yourself and promote yourself within it.

It will give you the opportunity to undertake the following:

CV preparationYou will complete an assignment and attend supporting seminars which are designed to equip you with the ability to identify employers, create CVs and appropriate modes of communication, and participate in interviews.

This will enable you to develop a professional attitude to commercial viability, enhancing your opportunities for placement and employment.

Attend lectures by professional practice speakersVisiting speakers from related industries will help create a critical awareness of the design related industries, an understanding of responsible design and/or professional practice, as well as developing your awareness of employment opportunities within the design profession.

Speakers will also reinforce the various opportunities that professional studios offer to graduates as well as an awareness of the professional and ethical responsibilities of the designer/illustrator.

Portfolio preparationYou will learn how to design a finished portfolio, prepared and presented to a high standard. This process gives the you an opportunity to reflect upon what you have achieved so far on the course, assess their development, gain confidence in presenting your work visually and verbally, building on your strengths and addressing your weaknesses.

Self-promotional piece – You will be asked to consider your aspirations as Graphic Designers, research the professional environment and design a self-promotional piece which will showcase you and your work to an identified and relevant audience in a convincing and compelling way.

GD5013 -

IMPLICATION: Can Graphic Design Saves Lives? (Core,40 Credits)

This module will enable you to focus on the positive social and cultural impacts of Graphic Design practice. The design solutions that practitioners create can help change lives, human behaviours, and culture within societies.

Graphic Designers have been at the forefront of facilitating modern societal change for over a 100-years across the world. In this module, you will build on this legacy by choosing from a set of briefs that cover design manifestos, ethical and sustainable design, designing for the third sector (charities and NGOs), etc. You will use your developing creative skills to impact positively on other people’s lives.

You will research your chosen sector and use the skills and knowledge acquired so far, along with your technical skills to design an appropriate, creative and meaningful solution.

GD5014 -

IMPLEMENTATION: what can you accomplish? (Core,40 Credits)

This module builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired so far on the course and gives you the opportunity to consolidate your learning and explore the more specific areas of Graphic Design that interest you.

A number of briefs will be offered which accommodate opportunities to take a more specialist approach, or a more generalist approach to the subject area. This will be your first opportunity to tackle a substantial brief of this nature in a chosen area and will result in a significant project for your portfolio at the end of the year.

This project will also help you to reflect upon your progress so far, the aspects of Graphic Design that you have found most rewarding, most challenging and most enjoyable. This process will help you to set your trajectory through 3rd year, giving a focus to your journey through the course.

Year three

AD5005 -

Design Work Placement Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Work Placement Year module is a 120 credit year-long module available on degree courses which include a work placement year, taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6 (the length of the placement(s) will be determined by your programme but it can be no less than 30 weeks. You will undertake a guided work placement at a host organisation. This is a Pass/Fail module and so does not contribute to classification. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Work Placement Year)”. The learning and teaching on your placement will be recorded in the work placement agreement signed by the placement provider, the student, and the University.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

AD5006 -

Design Study Abroad Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Study Abroad Year module is a full year 120 credit module which is available on degree courses which include a study abroad year which is taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6. You will undertake a year of study abroad at a European University under the ERASMUS+ exchange scheme or at an approved partner University elsewhere. This gives you access to modules from your discipline taught in a different learning culture and so broadens your overall experience of learning. The course of study abroad will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria). Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, if you pass, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

AT5004 -

Year in International Business (This is made up of 5 modules studied in Newcastle (Semester 1) & Amsterdam (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)

This overarching module descriptor covers the Year in International Business which is made up of 5 modules which students study in Newcastle (semester 1) and Amsterdam (semester 2).

This additional year of studies has been designed to develop students’ business awareness and their soft skills through a semester of study in the UK followed by engagement in studying in Amsterdam and working on real business projects to further enhance and develop this knowledge, skills and attributes.

Semester 1 in the UK comprises three 20-credit modules aimed at students new to business and management, which also equips the students for a semester in Amsterdam, working in teams on a “real-world”, client facing project. Of the modules studies in Semester 1 provide students with the “soft”, “analytical” and “project management” skills necessary to embark on a “real-world” client-centred consultancy project in Semester 2. In Semester 2, students will work move to Amsterdam and study two modules on Northumbria licensed premises. The first module, Group Business Consultancy Project, is a Level 5 40 credit Consultancy Project providing a supported and challenging experience with real business supervised by Northumbria and possibly Dutch academics. The final module complements the development of business knowledge and application through a contextualised consideration of International Business. This will also add to the Business Consultancy experience, thereby guaranteeing a coherent business experience.

In semester 1, students will learn in an environment aligned to that of business students on full time programmes. A mixture of large group and small group sessions will take place. In semester 2, in accordance with the experiential learning pedagogical approach in the Business Clinic operated at Newcastle Business School, the group consultancy work will involve students working in groups, facilitated by academics but also independently and amongst their peers in collaborative project work to provide real business consultancy. Assessment has been developed in accordance with Northumbria’s Assessment for Learning principles including a broad mix of assessment appropriate to the learning outcomes being assessed and with opportunities for formative feedback.

A student who passes all modules will, on successful completion of their undergraduate programme of study, have the title “(Year in International Business UK and Amsterdam)” added to their degree award title. Students who do not pass 120 credits will have those modules that have been completed recorded on their transcript.

Year four

AH6006 -

Design Dissertation (Core,20 Credits)

The 20 credit Design Dissertation at level 6 is the culmination of your development as an independent and critical learner through research writing and thinking about a topic that you devise yourself in consultation with your tutors. You will build upon the Design Dissertation Proposal you wrote in level 5 through research and writing a 6,000 word essay on a subject related to your design specialism or any other aspect of visual culture in the broad sense that you wish to explore. The Design Dissertation is an opportunity for you to demonstrate not only your knowledge of a particular design subject in which you are interested or relates directly to your practice, but also your skills in writing, researching and organising material, working independently and using enhanced analytical and interpretative skills in presenting an argued case in written form: all skills which will benefit you in your professional life.

GD6014 -

REALISATION: Industry Briefs (Core,40 Credits)

You will continue to develop and explore your knowledge and intellectual understanding of the creative process underpinning Graphic Design at an advanced level of study. The module fosters a deep understanding of the cognitive processes and visual problem solving required within the field of Graphic Design. This will be accomplished by your selection from a range of intellectually stimulating and suitably complex professional “live briefs” – projects set by industry partners, professional design educational bodies, or related organisations.

GD6015 -

SUMMATION Final Major Project (Core,60 Credits)

This final module will be the culmination of your undergraduate studies and will give you the opportunity to showcase your abilities within your chosen area of Graphic Design.The module provides you with the opportunity to plan, develop and produce a significant body of work over a whole semester. The module allows you to consolidate and utilise the skills, knowledge and experience you have gained throughout the course and provides you with a unique opportunity to create a highly developed, intellectually stimulating and fully resolved body of work that will be an important part of your portfolio and will help you ascertain your creative direction as you work towards your future career, or further study. You will need to use your skills in organisation, management and communication alongside the technical, creative and conceptual skills you have gained throughout the course. Projects need to be resolved to the high conceptual and technical standards demanded by the profession.

Briefs can be from a range of sources including competition set briefs, industry set briefs, staff set briefs or self-initiated briefs which allow you to explore and develop your skills in a particular area of Graphic Design. All briefs proposed must reflect 600hrs of study and be approved by staff prior to the start of the project.

Modules Overview 2020/21

Modules

Year one

AH4010 -

Cultural History for Graphic Designers (Core,20 Credits)

This level 4 module examines historical influences on graphic design within a global context and is designed to develop your knowledge of graphic design history, expanding your visual vocabulary as a designer, enabling you to take inspiration from the design of the past and locate your practice within the wider context of graphic design. You will first be introduced to historical questions concerning the development of graphic design. Topics include the historical development of visual messages, mark-making, alphabets and manuscripts; technological advances in print and type and the development of a new profession of Graphic Design. You will then explore graphic design through a survey of historical styles in relation to social and artistic context. The seminar sessions will allow you to research and discuss case studies relating to the lecture programme and develop skills enabling critical analysis of typography and images. You will develop skills of Visual Analysis, looking closely at images and putting your observations into words, and develop skills for writing academically about visual topics.

GD4007 -

BOOTCAMP 1: Think like a Graphic Designer (Core,40 Credits)

Through a series of short, fast-paced briefs you will be introduced to the intellectual fundamentals and creative processes involved within the practice of Graphic Design.

You will gain an understanding of the essential methods and processes that underpin the subject. The module gives you an introduction to the intellectual and creative philosophy of Graphic Design and fosters an understanding of the cognitive processes of visual problem solving and conceptual thinking required to be a Graphic Designer. This will be accomplished by your introduction to the various methods and approaches that can be employed as part of the design process. It will give you a greater understanding of the fundamentals of Graphic Design, including, amongst other things, the importance of typography, semiotics, layout, image curation, narrative and storytelling. These are all taught as a means of communication and as essential component in the subject of Graphic Design.

GD4008 -

BOOTCAMP 2: Work like a Graphic Designer (Core,40 Credits)

In this module you will build on the design thinking, skills and knowledge gained in ‘Bootcamp One’ by engaging with approaches to identifying design problems and by further developing your ability to respond to them creatively. You will develop the verbal and visual communication skills needed to present your work and collaborate effectively through presentations and group work. You will also continue developing the appropriate research skills for both practical design work and continuing academic study.

GD4009 -

THE TOOLKIT: Being Prepared (Core,20 Credits)

In this module, you will have the opportunity to learn about the expressive and creative potential offered by graphic design technical processes and techniques. These will be further enhanced by induction sessions exploring a variety of Graphic Design technical processes in appropriate workshop environments.

You will be encouraged to recognise how learning through challenging Graphic Design technical processes in this module can underpin novel and experimental approaches to problem-based work throughout the Graphic Design programme.

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

Year two

AH5010 -

Cultural Theory for Graphic Designers (Core,20 Credits)

In this module, you will be introduced to key themes and issues in Graphic Design. Through a dedicated lecture programme, you will examine the ways in which Graphic Design constantly changes, to both reflect and inform its wider cultural, social, economic and theoretical context. Supporting seminars explore the meanings, values and ethics of graphic design through the analysis of case studies of current practice in areas relevant to the students' individual programme pathways: Branding, Typography and Image-Making. In doing so it enhances your understanding of the theoretical questions which were introduced at level 4, and delivers key learning outcomes of: broadening and deepening students' appreciation of issues, concepts and theories in graphic design; enabling you to identify and evaluate relevant information within both delivered content and independent study; facilitating your development of independent study skills; and developing appropriate skills of academic presentation and the communication of ideas. Through developing analytical, critical, and theoretical skills, this module will enhance your studio practice and help prepare you for the extended individual research project at level 6.

GD5012 -

DIFFERENTIATION: What makes you, you! (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to the professional working environment and how to place yourself and promote yourself within it.

It will give you the opportunity to undertake the following:

CV preparationYou will complete an assignment and attend supporting seminars which are designed to equip you with the ability to identify employers, create CVs and appropriate modes of communication, and participate in interviews.

This will enable you to develop a professional attitude to commercial viability, enhancing your opportunities for placement and employment.

Attend lectures by professional practice speakersVisiting speakers from related industries will help create a critical awareness of the design related industries, an understanding of responsible design and/or professional practice, as well as developing your awareness of employment opportunities within the design profession.

Speakers will also reinforce the various opportunities that professional studios offer to graduates as well as an awareness of the professional and ethical responsibilities of the designer/illustrator.

Portfolio preparationYou will learn how to design a finished portfolio, prepared and presented to a high standard. This process gives the you an opportunity to reflect upon what you have achieved so far on the course, assess their development, gain confidence in presenting your work visually and verbally, building on your strengths and addressing your weaknesses.

Self-promotional piece – You will be asked to consider your aspirations as Graphic Designers, research the professional environment and design a self-promotional piece which will showcase you and your work to an identified and relevant audience in a convincing and compelling way.

GD5013 -

IMPLICATION: Can Graphic Design Saves Lives? (Core,40 Credits)

This module will enable you to focus on the positive social and cultural impacts of Graphic Design practice. The design solutions that practitioners create can help change lives, human behaviours, and culture within societies.

Graphic Designers have been at the forefront of facilitating modern societal change for over a 100-years across the world. In this module, you will build on this legacy by choosing from a set of briefs that cover design manifestos, ethical and sustainable design, designing for the third sector (charities and NGOs), etc. You will use your developing creative skills to impact positively on other people’s lives.

You will research your chosen sector and use the skills and knowledge acquired so far, along with your technical skills to design an appropriate, creative and meaningful solution.

GD5014 -

IMPLEMENTATION: what can you accomplish? (Core,40 Credits)

This module builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired so far on the course and gives you the opportunity to consolidate your learning and explore the more specific areas of Graphic Design that interest you.

A number of briefs will be offered which accommodate opportunities to take a more specialist approach, or a more generalist approach to the subject area. This will be your first opportunity to tackle a substantial brief of this nature in a chosen area and will result in a significant project for your portfolio at the end of the year.

This project will also help you to reflect upon your progress so far, the aspects of Graphic Design that you have found most rewarding, most challenging and most enjoyable. This process will help you to set your trajectory through 3rd year, giving a focus to your journey through the course.

Year three

AD5005 -

Design Work Placement Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Work Placement Year module is a 120 credit year-long module available on degree courses which include a work placement year, taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6 (the length of the placement(s) will be determined by your programme but it can be no less than 30 weeks. You will undertake a guided work placement at a host organisation. This is a Pass/Fail module and so does not contribute to classification. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Work Placement Year)”. The learning and teaching on your placement will be recorded in the work placement agreement signed by the placement provider, the student, and the University.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

AD5006 -

Design Study Abroad Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Study Abroad Year module is a full year 120 credit module which is available on degree courses which include a study abroad year which is taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6. You will undertake a year of study abroad at a European University under the ERASMUS+ exchange scheme or at an approved partner University elsewhere. This gives you access to modules from your discipline taught in a different learning culture and so broadens your overall experience of learning. The course of study abroad will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria). Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, if you pass, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

AT5004 -

Year in International Business (This is made up of 5 modules studied in Newcastle (Semester 1) & Amsterdam (Semester 2) (Optional,120 Credits)

This overarching module descriptor covers the Year in International Business which is made up of 5 modules which students study in Newcastle (semester 1) and Amsterdam (semester 2).

This additional year of studies has been designed to develop students’ business awareness and their soft skills through a semester of study in the UK followed by engagement in studying in Amsterdam and working on real business projects to further enhance and develop this knowledge, skills and attributes.

Semester 1 in the UK comprises three 20-credit modules aimed at students new to business and management, which also equips the students for a semester in Amsterdam, working in teams on a “real-world”, client facing project. Of the modules studies in Semester 1 provide students with the “soft”, “analytical” and “project management” skills necessary to embark on a “real-world” client-centred consultancy project in Semester 2. In Semester 2, students will work move to Amsterdam and study two modules on Northumbria licensed premises. The first module, Group Business Consultancy Project, is a Level 5 40 credit Consultancy Project providing a supported and challenging experience with real business supervised by Northumbria and possibly Dutch academics. The final module complements the development of business knowledge and application through a contextualised consideration of International Business. This will also add to the Business Consultancy experience, thereby guaranteeing a coherent business experience.

In semester 1, students will learn in an environment aligned to that of business students on full time programmes. A mixture of large group and small group sessions will take place. In semester 2, in accordance with the experiential learning pedagogical approach in the Business Clinic operated at Newcastle Business School, the group consultancy work will involve students working in groups, facilitated by academics but also independently and amongst their peers in collaborative project work to provide real business consultancy. Assessment has been developed in accordance with Northumbria’s Assessment for Learning principles including a broad mix of assessment appropriate to the learning outcomes being assessed and with opportunities for formative feedback.

A student who passes all modules will, on successful completion of their undergraduate programme of study, have the title “(Year in International Business UK and Amsterdam)” added to their degree award title. Students who do not pass 120 credits will have those modules that have been completed recorded on their transcript.

Year four

AH6006 -

Design Dissertation (Core,20 Credits)

The 20 credit Design Dissertation at level 6 is the culmination of your development as an independent and critical learner through research writing and thinking about a topic that you devise yourself in consultation with your tutors. You will build upon the Design Dissertation Proposal you wrote in level 5 through research and writing a 6,000 word essay on a subject related to your design specialism or any other aspect of visual culture in the broad sense that you wish to explore. The Design Dissertation is an opportunity for you to demonstrate not only your knowledge of a particular design subject in which you are interested or relates directly to your practice, but also your skills in writing, researching and organising material, working independently and using enhanced analytical and interpretative skills in presenting an argued case in written form: all skills which will benefit you in your professional life.

GD6014 -

REALISATION: Industry Briefs (Core,40 Credits)

You will continue to develop and explore your knowledge and intellectual understanding of the creative process underpinning Graphic Design at an advanced level of study. The module fosters a deep understanding of the cognitive processes and visual problem solving required within the field of Graphic Design. This will be accomplished by your selection from a range of intellectually stimulating and suitably complex professional “live briefs” – projects set by industry partners, professional design educational bodies, or related organisations.

GD6015 -

SUMMATION Final Major Project (Core,60 Credits)

This final module will be the culmination of your undergraduate studies and will give you the opportunity to showcase your abilities within your chosen area of Graphic Design.The module provides you with the opportunity to plan, develop and produce a significant body of work over a whole semester. The module allows you to consolidate and utilise the skills, knowledge and experience you have gained throughout the course and provides you with a unique opportunity to create a highly developed, intellectually stimulating and fully resolved body of work that will be an important part of your portfolio and will help you ascertain your creative direction as you work towards your future career, or further study. You will need to use your skills in organisation, management and communication alongside the technical, creative and conceptual skills you have gained throughout the course. Projects need to be resolved to the high conceptual and technical standards demanded by the profession.

Briefs can be from a range of sources including competition set briefs, industry set briefs, staff set briefs or self-initiated briefs which allow you to explore and develop your skills in a particular area of Graphic Design. All briefs proposed must reflect 600hrs of study and be approved by staff prior to the start of the project.

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